The South Florida Water Management District restores and protects natural ecosystems that provide important habitat for native wildlife species. Did you know Florida’s native birds and wildlife are a key indicator for the success of Everglades restoration?
In recognition of World Wildlife Day, we are giving thanks to SFWMD's wildlife biologists, land managers and other staff who work year-round to protect South Florida’s native wildlife, including the gopher tortoise, the Eastern Indigo snake, Black-necked stilts and Florida burrowing owls.
Our team is working every day to conduct extensive research and monitoring of key wildlife, coordinate with partner agencies on conservation activities for threatened and endangered species and protect critical habitat for native wildlife populations.
Ensuring the protection of birds and other native species on our project sites is very important, including when these projects are being constructed. The SFWMD's wildlife management team conducts comprehensive trainings for staff and contractors that cover:
- The importance of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
- A walkthrough of state and federally-listed species that they might encounter on a project site.
- What to do if/when you see a protected species.
- How to avoid disturbing or otherwise negatively impacting these species and nesting activities.
In addition to trainings, SFWMD staff also monitor sites for birds and other wildlife while instituting safety precautions such as reduced speed limits on project sites. You may even notice barriers, instructions and signage to alert site visitors of nearby protected species. All construction activities are completed under appropriate state and federal permits to ensure the protection of our natural resources and wildlife.
A key component of SFWMD’s mission is to protect, restore and manage natural areas and ecosystems that support native wildlife. By protecting our native wildlife, we can help ensure our ecosystems stay healthy and balanced.